Metelkova
Metelkova mesto
An alternative arts district in a former Yugoslav barracks, full of graffiti, installation art, and underground bars.
Metelkova lies southeast of the railway station. It was originally a barracks for the Austro-Hungarian and later Yugoslav armies. In 1993 it was occupied by artists and social activists, and it gradually grew into one of Europe's best-known self-governing cultural zones. The buildings are covered in graffiti, mosaics, and unusual sculptures. You can wander and take photos freely by day. At night, many clubs and bars open, with punk, electronic, and independent music. The neighbouring Trsto barracks complex houses the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Ethnographic Museum. At night, keep an eye on your belongings, and do not photograph strangers in the area.
Opening hours
Open all day (bar open at night)
Nearby sights
- Dragon Bridge & Central Market
- Butchers' Bridge
- Ljubljana Cathedral
- Ljubljana Castle
- Franciscan Church of the Annunciation
- Triple Bridge & Prešeren Square
- Nebotičnik
- Congress Square